ISU knows winning is the key to postseason destination

The race in the Big-12 North has been clouded but for Iowa State it is very clear. With wins over Kansas State and Missouri the Cyclones can lock up a trip to the Big-12 championship game. Not bad for a team that did not win a league game in 2003.ISU coach Dan McCarney says they were picked dead last in the conference to start the season, which he says was not surprising following their “nightmare” season last year. He says a lot of things can happen in the final two weeks, as four or five teams still have a chance to win the Big 12 North.The North Division has been bashed this year for its lack of strength but McCarney likes being involved in the race. He says ISU usually is playing just to try and keep their head above water at this time of year. He says they can decide if they stay home for the holidays are go to a bowl game.The Cyclones are 5-4 overall.